When skin is exposed to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, it can result in sunburn, an inflammatory response. Chlorine, a chemical widely used in swimming pools, can also interact with the skin. Understanding how these two factors affect the skin is important for managing discomfort and promoting skin health.
What Sunburn Is
Sunburn develops when skin cells absorb too much UV radiation. This overexposure damages the DNA within skin cells, triggering an inflammatory reaction. The body’s immune system responds by increasing blood flow to the affected area, leading to symptoms like redness, pain, and warmth. In more severe cases, blistering and eventual peeling can occur as the body sheds damaged cells. This process compromises the skin’s protective barrier, leaving it vulnerable.
How Chlorine Interacts with Skin
Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant essential for keeping pool water free from bacteria and other pathogens. When chlorine comes into contact with healthy skin, it acts as an oxidizing agent, stripping away the natural oils that form the skin’s protective barrier. This disruption removes the skin’s natural moisture, leading to dryness, tightness, and a rough texture. Prolonged or frequent exposure can also lead to irritation and rashes, a condition known as contact dermatitis.
The chemical properties of chlorine can also interact with the skin’s proteins, lipids, and collagen, further compromising its integrity. For individuals with existing skin sensitivities or conditions like eczema, chlorine can exacerbate symptoms, causing increased itching or irritation.
The Impact of Chlorine on Sunburned Skin
Chlorine can exacerbate the discomfort of sunburned skin. When skin is already compromised by UV damage, its protective barrier is weakened and inflamed. The drying action of chlorine further dehydrates this vulnerable skin, intensifying tightness or irritation. This additional moisture loss can make the pain and redness of a sunburn worse.
While chlorine does not directly increase the risk of getting a sunburn, it accentuates existing discomfort by drying out the irritated and inflamed areas. This can delay the natural healing process of the sunburn. For individuals with severe sunburn, particularly those with blisters or broken skin, exposure to chlorinated water can increase the risk of further irritation and may even lead to complications with healing.
Protecting Sunburned Skin in Water
If your skin is sunburned, especially with significant redness or blistering, it is best to avoid swimming in chlorinated water to allow the skin to heal. If swimming is unavoidable or the sunburn is mild, these measures can help mitigate chlorine’s impact:
- Rinse the skin with fresh water immediately before entering the pool, reducing chlorinated water absorption.
- Apply a water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to offer a protective layer against both UV rays and some chlorine contact.
- Shower immediately after swimming with fresh water to thoroughly rinse off any chlorine residue from the skin.
- Gently pat the skin dry instead of rubbing to avoid further irritation.
- Apply a soothing and hydrating moisturizer, such as aloe vera gel or a rich cream, to help replenish lost moisture and support the skin’s healing process.
- Wear protective swimwear, like rash guards, as a physical barrier against UV exposure and chlorine.